MWC W10 1970s Pattern Hybrid Quartz/Mechanical Watch - NATO Stock Number 6645-99-541-5317

SKU Code: W10/VHB

The MWC W10S/VHS combines the distinctive appearance of the original hand-wound W10 with the accuracy and convenience of a modern VH31 sweep-seconds quartz movement. Its compact satin-finished stainless steel case, black dial and Admiralty Grey NATO strap preserve the character of the original military design.

A Design Rooted in British Military Watchmaking

The original hand-wound W10 preceded the quartz G10 watches introduced into British military service in 1980. At the time, plans to incorporate a quartz movement into the W10 case pattern were limited by the thickness of the movements available. A different case design was required, helping shape the G10 watches that followed.

That lineage continues with the modern MWC G10 models supplied to the British Army through military procurement contractors.

The final two images in this listing reproduce a government specification sheet dated February 1980, inviting tenders for the W10 case pattern. Today’s slimmer quartz movements make it possible to revisit that original concept while retaining its distinctive proportions.

Revived for a Military Procurement Requirement

This model was developed following a request from a military procurement contractor for a substantial quantity of watches based on the original design. NATO codification was a requirement of the project.

Following discussions with the MOD codification agency, it was agreed that the watch could use the original NATO Stock Number, 6645-99-541-5317. Apart from the modern movement and the addition of a screw-down locking crown, the watch remains essentially faithful to the specification originally requested. The NSN is engraved on the caseback.

HYBRID MOVEMENT – SMOOTH SWEEP WITH QUARTZ ACCURACY

This watch is powered by a modern hybrid VH31 quartz movement.

The movement is battery-powered and quartz-regulated but drives the hands in a smooth sweeping motion, offering a traditional mechanical appearance without the need for manual winding.

In simple terms, it combines:

• The visual appeal of a mechanical watch
• The accuracy and convenience of quartz

Accuracy is rated at ±15 seconds per month at normal temperatures—equivalent to approximately half a second per day when averaged over a month. This offers a significant improvement in timekeeping over the original hand-wound movement, without the need for daily winding.

A hacking function stops the seconds hand when setting the time, allowing precise synchronisation.

Practical, Understated Construction

The case is manufactured from 316L stainless steel with a satin finish. A black dial with luminous markings provides clear readability, while the acrylic crystal retains the traditional appearance of the W10 design.

A screw-down locking crown complements the watch’s 50-metre water resistance. Each watch is supplied with an 18mm Admiralty Grey heat-welded NATO webbing strap and a presentation tin.

Specifications

• Case diameter: 35mm excluding crown; 37mm including crown
• Thickness: 12mm
• Dial: Black with luminous markings
• Case material: 316L stainless steel
• Caseback: 316L stainless steel
• Crown: 316L stainless steel, screw-down locking
• Movement: VH31 sweep-seconds quartz/mechanical hybrid
• Battery Life: 24 Months
• Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month at normal temperatures
• Functions: Hours, minutes, sweep seconds and hacking
• Crystal: Acrylic (Plexiglass/Perspex)
• Water resistance: 5 ATM / 50m
• Strap: 18mm Admiralty Grey heat-welded NATO webbing
• NATO Stock Number: 6645-99-541-5317, engraved on the caseback
• Packaging: Supplied in a presentation box

Europe, UK, and Rest of World

Tracked Mail:

• Europe: €11.75 / £9.99 / US$12.95
• UK: £7.95 / €9.50 / US$10.50
• Rest of World: US$22.75 / €20.50 / £17.50

Express Courier (UPS or FedEx):

• Europe: €23.50 / £19.99 / US$25.95
• UK (UPS/DPD):  £12.95 / €15.25 / US$16.95
• Rest of World: US$45.50 / €41.25 / £34.95

Note: The exact shipping cost may vary slightly depending on the weight and dimensions, but it will only differ by a small amount and will be shown at checkout. The above rates cover approximately 85% of parcels.

For more details click here

If you are not satisfied with your purchase or it does not meet your requirements, you can return it within 14 days of receipt. The item must be in its original condition and packaging. To return a watch, please notify us using the form at the link below.

Please note that the watch, strap, or other purchased item must be in new and resalable condition. The returns policy will not apply if the item has been worn, the plastic protectors on the dial and/or caseback have been removed, or if there are other signs of usage, such as a worn strap. Essentially, the goods should not have been used beyond what would be expected if you had handled or examined an item in a shop before purchase.

To request a return authorization number, please visit this link.

Read our full returns policy here